Bush Sets 'Principles' for Postal Reform

President Bush called on Congress to enact comprehensive postal reform legislation yesterday and outlined principles for Congress to consider in developing such a bill.

The President made the announcement during a meeting with members of the Presidential Commission on the U.S. Postal Service, Treasury Secretary John W. Snow and Postmaster General John E. Potter to discuss the Commission's recommendations on postal reform, which were submitted to the president this summer.

The principles are:

· Implement best practices. Ensure that the postal service is equipped to meet its responsibilities and objectives.

· Transparency. Ensure that important information on postal product costs and performance is accurately measured and made available to the public in a timely manner.

· Flexibility. Ensure that USPS management have the authority to reduce costs, set rates, and adjust key aspects of its business to meet its obligations to customers.

· Accountability. Ensure that the postal service has appropriate independent oversight to protect consumer welfare and universal mail service.

· Self-financing. Ensure that the USPS is financially self-sufficient, covering all of its obligations.

Senate Governmental Affairs Committee Chairman Susan Collins, R-ME, said the principles will help guide her in developing reform legislation.

Collins has chaired two hearings on postal reform this year and plans to hold additional hearings in 2004.